After the tragic death of the Mayor of Wandsworth, Brian Prichard, it’s time to choose a new Mayor. And I’m delighted that Piers McCausland will be taking on the responsibility of first citizen tonight.

Piers and I were both elected to the council in 1998 and I don’t think anyone would disagree with me saying that he is one of the council’s bigger characters.

He has a dry sense of humour and (I hope he won’t be upset by me saying) a slight eccentricity that hides a sharp intellect. All qualities that will go towards making him a fine Mayor for the borough.

I wish him luck for the forthcoming year.